Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has dismissed suggestions that his team's prior experience in a World Cup final gives them an advantage over Spain in Sunday's decider at MetLife Stadium. Argentina and Spain meet on 19 July for the 2026 World Cup title.
Scaloni, who is friends with Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, noted that Spain's squad includes players seasoned by major occasions such as the Euro and Nations League finals. He said no special tactical analysis of the Spanish side had been conducted. The 45-year-old manager joked that he was worried Spain's team bus might not leave the hotel for the match, while also expressing frustration at an unwanted training schedule on Friday and the pre-match entertainment spectacle.
Scaloni described 39-year-old Lionel Messi as a pure legend but declined to confirm whether the final would be the forward's last appearance for Argentina. He admitted he remains moved by the passion and unity of the nation's supporters.